MoU between Netherlands and Sri Lanka to explore facilities for On-board
Security Teams

MoU between Netherlands and Sri Lanka to explore facilities for
On-board Security Teams

[May 16 2017]

The Netherlands Government signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with the Sri Lankan Government on provision of
services to the Netherlands Merchant Vessel Protection Detachments (VPDs)
operating in the Indian Ocean, during a ceremony held at the ministry
premises on Tuesday (16th May 2017).

Secretary to the Ministry of Defence together with the
Netherlands Ambassador in Sri Lanka Her Excellency Joanne Doornewaard
inked the MoU representing the two governments.

Last year's Galle Dialogue paved the way for the MoU
signing as the Commander of the Royal Netherlands Navy, Vice Admiral Rob
Verkerk requested assistance for Dutch Marines on embarking/disembarking
and storage of small arms at Galle since they are providing onboard
security to the Netherlands Merchant Vessels operating in the Indian
Ocean.

With the successful completion of discussion Sri Lanka
Navy also offered an Asymmetric Warfare Course to two Dutch marines at
the Special Boat Squadron in Trincomalee.

This is the first ever MoU being signed between Sri
Lankan Government and a foreign country with regard to the facilitation
of Onboard Security Team (OBST) operations. These teams are specialized
in providing affordable security solutions for vessels operating in high
risk waters and provide security training, risk consulting and security
planning for the maritime community.

Under the directions of the President, Sri Lanka Navy
undertook the facilitation of OBST operations which has assisted to
increase the capital of the government.